Food Fan First

Easing back into blogging after a long hiatus because you know….life. Life with my kids, my job that I love, and navigating single mommy life and all its idiosyncrasies. In a nutshell, getting caught up in the routine and groove of life. But, I’m reclaiming my time because food is everything to me. It’s my art. From its history, it’s journey from farm to table, to the creativity and innovation of food dishes that entice your eyes as well as your palate.

I’m starting back with this Smoky Butternut Squash Soup w/ Yogurt and Dukkah seasoning for a little bit of Fall inspiration. I’ve used Dukkah seasoning in a couple of my other recipes. As you can see, it’s one of my favorite seasonings. Some nights when I get home late and I don’t want to look at the stove because I’m too tired and too hungry, I’ll whip up some Scrambled Eggs with Cheese, Avocado slices and sprinkle Dukkah Seasoning on top of my eggs. Now, Scrambled Eggs with Cheese is great on its own, but adding the seasoning, gives it such a pop of flavor. Like I can really cook kind of flavor. You can make your own Dukkah seasoning, which consists of a combination of nuts, sesame seeds, cumin, fennel, and other seasonings. Or, you can just buy it here.

The soup was a great late-night dinner for me, along with some crusty bread and my new obsession……Better Call Saul. I binged watched Breaking Bad last year and was told to watch its prequel spin-off. I’m quite hooked.

In a large skillet, warm 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Cook stirring often until the onion has softened and is starting to turn brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Transfer the cooked onion and garlic mixture to a blender. Add the roasted butternut squash, smoked sea salt, smoked paprika and freshly ground black pepper. Pour in the vegetable stock and blend on high until soup is thick and creamy. Add additional stock if you would like a thinner soup. Depending on the type of blender you use, (I used my Vitamix), you may have to work in batches to blend the squash. Pour soup into bowls and garnish with yogurt, Dukkah seasoning and parsley. Serve immediately.